Cashless payments in Bangladesh have surged in recent years, driven by widespread adoption of credit, debit, and prepaid cards alongside app- and QR code-based payment methods. Enhanced digital infrastructure, improved internet connectivity, and strong support from banks and fintechs are reshaping payment behaviors across the country.
As of June 2025, Bangladesh Bank data shows 2.95 million credit card users, 43.45 million debit card holders, and 7 million prepaid card users—significant increases from the previous year. Total card transactions reached 51.45 million, totaling Tk 48,200 crore.
Beyond cards, digital channels also saw growth: cheque transactions amounted to Tk 1,70,827 crore, electronic funds transfers (EFT) hit Tk 86,661 crore, real-time gross settlement (RTGS) reached Tk 5,11,059 crore, internet banking transactions totaled Tk 1,04,935 crore, and e-commerce transactions accounted for Tk 2,283 crore in June 2025.
Credit card spending rose to Tk 3,524 crore, reflecting stronger consumer confidence, while debit card transactions dipped slightly, as users increasingly prefer app-based and QR payments.
Experts attribute this momentum to the convenience, speed, security, and cost-efficiency of digital payments. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend, fostering safer and more hygienic transactions, especially among urban and younger demographics.
App-based payments, introduced in 2018, have grown alongside smartphone penetration and better internet speeds. Both customers and small businesses are embracing digital channels, boosting e-commerce and online trade.
Bankers stress that further growth depends on increasing digital literacy, government support through tax incentives, wider internet coverage, affordable smart devices, and robust security to build trust in the ecosystem.
